England’s preview to euro 2012

       Surprises of the twenty three man squad of players not included are holding midfielder Carrick, central defender Ferdinand (left out for “football reasons” states hodgson) right back Richards and centre forwards Crouch and Sturidge. With just days to go to England’s first group match against the French, with England winning their two warm up games by the same score of 1-0 and looking defensively organised but lacking goals.

Tension is building; expectations are realistic with key players getting injured in the build up, a new manager and a relatively mediocre squad compared to the likes of Spain, Holland, Germany and Italy.

Roy Hodgson’s England team are likely to play a robust variation of four four two, with two holding midfielders (Parker and Gerrard) and three creative midfielders looking to support the striker (Welbeck or Carroll)

England is looking defensively sound, as stated previously, but may struggle to get goals.

England’s star man Wayne Rooney is suspended for the first two games against France and Sweden. But is back for what could be a crucial group decider verses joint hosts Ukraine.

What is in England’s favour and will help them do well in the European championships. Is a wise manager, with experience of managing three national teams. A world class left back in Ashley Cole, a quality goalkeeper not seen since Peter Shilton in Joe Hart and Captain Seven Gerrard.

My prediction for the tournament is that England will go to the quarterfinals of the Euros and be knocked out by either Spain or Italy.

By Colin J Smith